In rough weather a furling foresail can be useful but far from ideal. By furling the foresail the point of lateral pressure in the sail moves forward and up, making the vessel heel and even causing lee rudder. The sail also becomes fuller, adversely affecting the boat's upwind performance.

A staysail can solve this problem. This sail is mounted on a fixed or removable stay behind the genoa and is specially cut for rough weather. the sheets are separate from the genoa sheets so that both sails can be operated simultaneously. Depending on the vessel and the cruising area, the choice available is an inner stay, just behind the forestay or cutter stay, attached at about 7/8 up the mast. The inner forestay does not need running backstays, making ik an easy to operate system. The jib kan be a high aspect jib of maximum proportions. This is an effective solution for inshore sailors who need manoeuvrability and good sail performance in force 5 to 7 winds.

A cutter stay is attached at 2/3 up the mast. It is therefore necessary to support the mast aft using running backstays. This system is more difficult to operate but gives extra support to the mast in rough weather. The jib is also smaller and further aft creating a very effective storm rig. This option is suitable for sailors making long crossings and is especially safe for those who want comfortable sailing in winds of force 6 to 7.

Both systems can be assembled fixed or removable. A fixed system can be fitted with a furling reef system, whereas a removable system results in a clean area on the bow during fair weather.